Apparatus for the assisted performance of a fitness exercise

ABSTRACT

An apparatus ( 1 ) for the assisted performance of a fitness exercise, equipped with a fitness tool ( 2 ) configured to interact with the user ( 3 ) to enable the user to perform a movement along a preset path overcoming the force of a resistant load ( 7 ), comprises: sensing means ( 4 ) set up to provide a signal representing the movement of the user ( 3 ); feedback means ( 5 ) for transmitting a signal to the user ( 3 ) during performance of the exercise; a processor ( 6 ) connected to the sensing means ( 4 ) and to the feedback means ( 5 ) to provide the user ( 3 ) with feedback in real time on the correctness of performance of the exercise, based on a comparison between the signal representing the movement of the user and a predetermined reference pattern representing an ideal pattern for the movement of the user ( 3 ) corresponding to the exercise performed correctly.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to an apparatus and a method for the assistedperformance of a fitness exercise and an apparatus for assisting theuser in the performance of a free body fitness exercise.

BACKGROUND ART

Known in the prior art are fitness tools designed to allow a user toperform a fitness exercise.

Some of these tools comprise a resistant weight and a mobile elementconnected to the weight which allow the performance of a plurality offitness exercises for training a plurality of human body muscles. Othertools define constraints allowing the user to train by performingpredetermined movements and using the body as the resistant load.

For example, European patent EP1402925 to the same Applicant as thisinvention, describes an exercise machine comprising a frame, a pluralityof pulleys fixed to the frame, a cable trained around the pulleys, apair of resistant loads to which the respective ends of the cable areconnected, and a mobile element in the form of a handgrip slidablyassociated with the cable and designed to be gripped by the user and tobe moved along a path for performing a fitness exercise.

Patent document EP1506798 in the name of the same Applicant as thisinvention describes an exercise machine which can be used by a pluralityof users at the same time.

The exercise machine comprises a plurality of exercise zones, eachdesigned to be occupied by a user performing an exercise. In eachexercise zone, there is a cable connected to a resistant load whichallows the user to perform the fitness exercise.

The exercise machines described above are very versatile and allow theuser to perform a plurality of different exercises for training aplurality of body muscles.

Whatever the exercise, it is essential that the user perform theexercise correctly so as to gain the most benefit from it.

In effect, performing an exercise incorrectly, besides reducing thebenefits associated with that exercise (the benefit being, for example,improving muscle power and developing muscle tone), involves a risk ofmuscle damage and, in the long term, may lead to serious degenerativediseases of the spinal column.

Fitness establishments such as gyms normally employ trainers, that is tosay, physical education specialists, responsible for supervising fitnessequipment users during exercise sessions.

If a trainer believes that a user is not performing an exerciseproperly, he or she provides the user with instructions and explanationson how the exercise should be performed.

For economic reasons, a gym has a relatively small number of trainerscompared to the number of fitness equipment users. Thus, each trainer isobliged to keep an eye on different fitness equipment users in turn,which means that the attention dedicated to supervising the exercises ofany one particular user is inevitably limited.

Moreover, when not inside a gym, a user of fitness equipment very oftenperforms exercises without any supervision.

For example, a person using a fitness tool at home usually performs anexercise without the supervision of a trainer, mainly on account of thehigh cost of calling a trainer to supervise an exercise sessionperformed in the user's home.

Thus, the only supervision available to a user in most of such cases isthe user's own personal discretion and experience, with the aid, forexample, of a mirror placed near the exercise tool with which tovisually monitor his or her own movements.

Even the benefits of a mirror, however, are limited because the userdoes not always possess the competence to spot the mistakes he or she ismaking in doing an exercise and is therefore unable to correct them.Also, the user may not even remember the proper way of performing anexercise, especially when a long time has passed since it was explainedby the expert (that is, the trainer). The user thus tends to adopt thewrong postures and to continue to do the exercise without even realizingthe mistakes.

Thus, users of fitness equipment (both inside and outside gyms) havelong felt the need to be able to do a workout correctly, optimizing thebenefits of training and reducing the risks deriving from incorrectpostures adopted during the performance of an exercise.

In light of this, several technical solutions are known for monitoringthe way a movement is performed for fitness or orthopedic purposes.

For example, patent document EP0336030 describes a system for monitoringload lifting movement, comprising electromyographic sensors connected tothe user's muscles and a sensor secured to the user's back in order tomeasure the angle of the user's back relative to the vertical.

The system also comprises a microprocessor connected to the sensors, aloudspeaker and a bar graph display unit connected to themicroprocessor.

The bar graph display provides the user with feedback regarding theamount of force exerted by the muscles on which the sensors arepositioned and the microprocessor activates the loudspeaker when themuscle force exerted exceeds predetermined thresholds.

The monitoring system described above is based on measuringpredetermined physiological parameters associated with the movement ofthe user and comparing the measured values of the physiologicalparameters with preset thresholds.

This monitoring system, however, if used during the performance of afitness exercise, would not be able to provide indications as to how toperform the exercise correctly, that is to say, corrective instructionsthat a trainer would provide. In effect, the system can only alert theuser when the muscle force exerted exceeds predetermined levels orintensity.

Patent document U.S. Pat. No. 4,830,021 describes a monitoring systemfor locomotor activity, such as running and/or walking, comprisingaccelerometers, posture sensors and sensors for measuring the electricalactivities of the heart, all secured to the user's body.

The monitoring system also comprises a unit which can record thesesignals and which can be secured to the user's body.

At the end of an exercise, the user can analyze the data on a computer.

This monitoring system does not therefore provide indications during theworkout and, in light of this, at the end of the exercise, the user isnot in a position to see whether or not the workout has been performedcorrectly.

Patent document EP0959956 in the name of Siemens relates to anorthopedic patient monitoring system comprising movement sensorsassociated with a part of the body and designed to measure pressure andshear forces and acceleration, a first memory for storing theinformation derived from the sensors, a second memory for apredetermined information model, a comparator for comparing the contentsof the two memories and a device for displaying the result of thecomparison.

The comparator is configured to compare the contents of the two memoriesonly at the end of the exercise activity when all the information fromthe sensors is present in the first memory.

In light of this, that monitoring system is unsuitable for providing thetype of indications on how to perform an exercise correctly that atrainer would provide.

In addition to the above, another drawback of the monitoring systemsdescribed above is that users are loath to wear sensors or monitoringdevices.

Patent document U.S. Pat. No. 7,018,211 discloses a procedure formonitoring the performance of a free body exercise and which involvesfilming the user with a video camera.

That document, however, does not regard exercise machines for musclepower training.

Patent document US2009/131225A1 describes machinery for therehabilitation of the arms and legs of users with motor disabilities orimpairments.

That document, too, therefore, does not regard exercise machines formuscle power training. More specifically, the rehabilitation exercisesperformed with the machinery described in that document constrain theuser's movements to specific postures and thus considerably limitfreedom of movement.

Patent document U.S. Pat. No. 6,148,280 describes a system of sensors tobe worn to assist a user in performing a movement with a golf club.

Thus, that document, too, does not regard exercise machines for musclepower training. Moreover, the sensors to be worn are uncomfortable forusers.

Document WO2009/013679 describes dumb-bells or barbells used forperforming fitness exercises and equipped with sensors to keep track ofthe movement performed by the user moving the dumb-bell or barbell sothat, at the end of an exercise, the movement can be compared with areference graph.

The solution described in that document does not, however, provideeffective real-time assistance for a user performing an exercise with amuscle power exercise machine.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The aim of this invention is to provide an apparatus for the assistedperformance of a fitness exercise using a muscle power exercise machine(in particular a functional machine) which overcomes the above mentioneddrawbacks of the prior art and which meets the needs outlined above.

More specifically, the aim of this invention is to provide an apparatusfor the assisted performance of a fitness exercise that allows the userto perform an exercise correctly, optimizing the beneficial effectsassociated with the exercise and reducing the risks deriving fromincorrect postures that might be adopted during the performance of theexercise.

This aim is fully achieved by the apparatus for the assisted performanceof a fitness exercise as characterized in the appended claims.

More specifically, the apparatus according to the invention is equippedwith a fitness tool configured to interact with the user to enable theuser to perform a movement along a preset path (or to maintain apredetermined position for a certain length of time corresponding to aphysical strain) overcoming the force of a resistant load.

The term “fitness tool” is used to mean a “fitness machine”.

According to the invention, the apparatus comprises, in combination:

-   -   sensing means set up to provide a signal representing the        movement of the user;    -   feedback means for transmitting a signal to the user during        performance of the exercise;    -   a processor connected to the sensing means and to the feedback        means to provide the user with feedback in real time on the        correctness of performance of the exercise, based on a        comparison between the signal representing the movement of the        user and a predetermined reference pattern representing an ideal        pattern for the movement of the user corresponding to the        exercise performed correctly.

The fitness tool may comprise a resistant load and a mobile elementconnected to the resistant load and movable by the user along the presetpath overcoming the resistant load.

More specifically, the apparatus according to the invention for theassisted performance of a fitness exercise is equipped with a fitnesstool (configured to interact with a user to enable the user to perform amovement along a preset path overcoming the force of a resistant load),comprising:

-   -   a frame;    -   a weight stack movably associated with the frame to define the        resistant load;    -   at least one mobile element connected to the resistant load by a        cable and movable by the user along a preset path overcoming the        resistant load.

Preferably, in the fitness tool, the cable is trained around a pluralityof pulleys and the mobile element comprises a handgrip associated withthe cable, the fitness tool allowing the user to do a plurality offitness exercises intended to train a plurality of the user's bodymuscles.

In this case, therefore, the fitness tool constitutes a “functionalmachine”.

Alternatively, the fitness tool does not comprise a resistant load andthe resistant load is constituted by a portion of the user's body whenthe user performs a movement of lifting/lowering that portion of thebody overcoming the force of gravity acting on it. The fitness tool thushas a supporting and/or partially guiding function to allow the user toperform specific movements.

Advantageously, the apparatus proposed allows the user to be providedwith feedback regarding the correctness of the exercise.

In effect, the sensing means derive a signal representing the user'smovement which the processor compares with a reference pattern.

The processor sends the feedback to the user through the feedback means,that is to say, it provides the user with real-time feedback regardingthe correctness of the exercise.

The user can thus obtain indications and/or information on how theexercise should be performed.

Further, thanks to these indications, the user can correct his or hermovement if it is not correct.

The invention also provides an apparatus for assisting the user duringthe performance of a free body fitness exercise and which is ascharacterized in the appended claims.

More specifically, the apparatus comprises, in combination: sensingmeans set up to provide a signal representing the movement of the userand comprising a video camera for capturing images of the user duringperformance of the exercise; feedback means for transmitting a signal tothe user during performance of the exercise and comprising a screen setup to display images; a processor connected to the sensing means and tothe feedback means to provide the user with feedback in real time on thecorrectness of performance of the exercise, based on a comparisonbetween the signal representing the movement of the user and apredetermined reference pattern representing an ideal pattern for themovement of the user corresponding to the exercise performed correctly.

The apparatus makes it possible to monitor free body movements whosekinematics, as is known, are very complex and characterized by manydegrees of freedom.

As is known, in a free body exercise, there is no resistant load and theuser performs the exercise by moving one part of the body relative toanother.

The video camera films the user performing the free body exercise andprovides a signal relating to the relative position of the user's bodyparts without the user having to wear any sensors.

The signal is compared by the processor with a reference patternrepresenting an ideal pattern for the user's movement and correspondingto the exercise performed correctly.

The processor sends the feedback to the user through the feedback means,that is to say, it provides the user with real-time feedback regardingthe correctness of the exercise.

The user can thus obtain indications and/or information on how the freebody fitness exercise should be performed.

Further, thanks to these indications, the user can correct his or hermovement if it is not correct.

Advantageously, the apparatus proposed makes it possible to reduce therisks due to incorrect postures adopted while the exercise is beingperformed and to optimize the benefits associated with the exercisebecause the apparatus provides the user with real-time feedback showingthe movement actually performed.

The aim is also achieved by a method for assisting a user in theperformance of a fitness exercise as characterized in the appendedclaims.

In particular, the method is a method to assist a user in theperformance of a fitness exercise, where the fitness exercise isperformed using a fitness tool comprising a frame, a weight stackmovably associated with the frame to define the resistant load, and atleast one mobile element connected to the resistant load by a cable andmovable by the user along a preset path overcoming the resistant load.

More specifically, the method is a method to assist a user in theperformance of a fitness exercise, where the fitness exercise isperformed using a fitness tool constituting a functional machine, inaccordance with what is described above in connection with theapparatus.

According to the invention, the method comprises the following steps:sensing a signal representing the movement of the user when the userperforms the fitness exercise; comparing in real time the signalrepresenting the movement of the user with a preset reference pattern,representing an ideal pattern for the movement of the user correspondingto the fitness exercise performed correctly; transmitting to the user inreal time a signal on the correctness of the performance of theexercise, according to the result of the comparison.

The method advantageously assists the user in the performance of anexercise using a fitness tool, whether comprising a resistant load orwhere the resistant load is constituted by a part of the user's body, orin the performance of free body exercises.

Advantageously, therefore, the method proposed allows a user to performan exercise correctly even in the absence of a trainer. This isparticularly advantageous for performing exercises without going to agym.

It should be noted that the invention preferably contemplates setting acriterion for comparing how the exercise has actually been performedwith how it should have been performed and a tolerance margin todetermine, as a function of the comparison, whether the actualperformance of the exercise differs from the ideal performance by anamount greater or smaller than the set tolerance margin.

In light of this, the invention contemplates displaying to the user animage representing the user's body and movements (user avatar) withoutat the same time displaying another image representing a body movingaccording to how the exercise should ideally be performed(avatar-trainer) until the actual performance differs from the idealperformance by an amount smaller than the preset tolerance margin.

According to the invention, the image representing the user's body andmovements is displayed in an altered or modified manner so as toindicate on the image the mistake the user is making (in terms ofdifference from the ideal performance of the exercise) only when thereal performance of the exercise differs from the ideal performance byan amount smaller than the preset tolerance margin.

Thus, the preset tolerance margin serves to provide the user withfeedback, showing the mistake made and indicating the correct movement,only when the user's mistake exceeds the tolerance margin.

This advantageously avoids distracting the user's attentionunnecessarily while he or she is performing the exercise.

This is particularly important when the user is performing an exercisethat requires a great deal of concentration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other characteristics of the invention will become moreapparent from the following detailed description of a preferred,non-limiting example embodiment of it, with reference to theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic rear view of a preferred embodiment of theapparatus according to this invention for the assisted performance of afitness exercise;

FIG. 2 is a schematic rear view of another preferred embodiment of theapparatus for the assisted performance of a fitness exercise;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are, respectively, a schematic rear view and a side viewof yet another preferred embodiment of the apparatus for the assistedperformance of a fitness exercise;

FIG. 4 is another schematic rear view of a further preferred embodimentof the apparatus according to this invention for the assistedperformance of a fitness exercise;

FIG. 5 is a schematic rear view of an apparatus for assisting a user inthe performance of a free body exercise, also according to theinvention;

FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a mode of providing feedback for a userin a fitness machine according to the invention;

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates another mode of providing feedback fora user in a fitness machine according to the invention;

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates yet another mode of providing feedbackfor a user in a fitness machine according to the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

With reference to FIGS. 1 to 4, the reference numeral 1 denotes theapparatus according to the invention for the assisted performance of afitness exercise, hereinafter also referred to as apparatus 1.

The term “user” denotes the person who performs an exercise using theapparatus of the invention.

Further, the expressions “correct exercise”, “exercise performedcorrectly” and similar expressions are used herein to indicate a fitnessexercise which has been performed according to a posture and/or asequence of movements considered optimal by an expert in the field ofphysical education, or trainer.

In light of this, the term “movement” (referred to the feedback suppliedby the apparatus) is used to denote the position adopted by the user'sbody during the performance of the exercise.

Generally speaking, during an exercise (at least during all dynamicfitness exercises, but excluding isometric exercises) some parts of theuser's body are in movement relative to others.

Having said that, the term “movement” is used to denote the positionadopted not only by the parts that should be moved during the exercisebut also those that should be held still.

According to the invention, the apparatus 1 for the assisted performanceof a fitness exercise comprises a fitness tool 2.

According to the invention, the fitness tool 2 is configured to interactwith the user 3 to enable the latter to perform a movement along apreset path overcoming the force of a resistant load 7.

More specifically, the fitness tool 2 comprises:

-   -   a frame (labeled 31 in FIGS. 3A and 3B and not illustrated in        FIG. 1, but of per se known type);    -   a weight stack movably associated with the frame to define the        resistant load 7;    -   at least one mobile element 8 connected to the resistant load 7        by a cable 19, 33 and movable by the user 3 along a preset path        overcoming the resistant load 7.

Thus, the fitness tool 2 of FIG. 1 comprises a resistant load 7 and amobile element 8 connected to the resistant load 7.

By way of a non-limiting example, the description below refers to apreferred embodiment of the apparatus 1 for the assisted performance ofa fitness exercise, as illustrated in FIG. 1.

The mobile element 8 is a handgrip 18 associated with a cable 19connected to the resistant load 7.

Preferably, the mobile element 8 is a handgrip 18 which is slidablyassociated with a cable 19 connected to the resistant load 7.

Alternatively, in variants not illustrated in the accompanying drawings,the mobile element 8 may be any constraining device connected to thecable 19, such as, for example, a strap.

To perform the fitness exercise, the user 3 moves the handgrip 18 alonga predetermined path overcoming the force exerted by the resistant load7 in response to the movement of the user 3.

The fitness tool 2 of FIG. 1 allows performance of a plurality offitness exercises for training a plurality of muscles of the body 20 ofthe user 3 (for example, shoulders, chest, etc.). Thus, the fitness tool2 constitutes (in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1) a functionalmachine.

More specifically, the cable 19 of the fitness tool 2 is trained arounda plurality of pulleys and the mobile element 8 comprises a handgripassociated with the cable.

Thus, the fitness tool 2 allows the user 3 to perform a plurality offitness exercises for training a plurality of muscles of the body of theuser 3.

In this case, therefore, the fitness tool 2 constitutes a functionalmachine.

The apparatus 1 for the assisted performance of a fitness exercisecomprises a video camera 9 configured to film the user 3 when performingthe exercise.

The video camera 9 is configured to film a portion of, and preferablythe entire, spatial volume in which the user 3 and/or the mobile element8 moves/move during the performance of the exercise.

According to the invention, the video camera 9 constitutes sensing means4 set up to provide a signal representing the movement of the user 3.

The apparatus 1 also comprises a screen 10 set up to display images.

By way of a non-limiting example, the screen 10 is an LCD screen.

Relative to the fitness tool 2 the screen 10 is positioned in such a waythat the user 3 can observe the images displayed on it while performingthe exercise.

According to the invention, the screen 10 constitutes feedback means 5for transmitting a signal to the user 3 during performance of theexercise.

According to the invention, the apparatus 1 further comprises aprocessor 6 connected to the sensing means 4 and to the feedback means5, that is to say, with reference to the non-limiting example embodimentof FIG. 1, to the video camera 9 and to the screen 10.

Also according to the invention, the processor 6 is configured tocompare in real time the signal representing the movement of the user 3with a preset reference pattern, representing an ideal pattern for themovement of the user corresponding to the fitness exercise performedcorrectly.

Preferably, the predetermined reference pattern is stored in theprocessor 6.

Below is a description of a preferred, non-limiting example mode ofoperation of the apparatus 1 of FIG. 1.

Other variants of the apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 will also be describedbelow.

When the user 3 performs the fitness exercise by moving the handgrip 18along the predetermined path, the video camera 9 captures images of theuser 3.

Preferably, the processor 6 receives the images captured by the videocamera 9 and drives the screen 10 in such a way that the latter displaysthe images captured by the video camera 9.

The screen 10 thus constitutes a sort of “mirror” in which the user canobserve his or her own movement during performance of the exercise.

The image of the body 20 of the user 3 defines on the screen 10 agraphical element 12 representing the user.

The graphical element 12 is positioned on the screen 10 according to theactual position of the user 3. In effect, the position of the body 20 ofthe user 3 in the image displayed is correlated with the positionactually adopted by the user 3 while performing the exercise.

The processor 6 is preferably configured to display on the screen 10also a further graphical element 11, which is positioned according tothe predetermined reference pattern.

Preferably, the further graphical element 11 is placed alongside, oralternatively superposed over, the graphical element 12.

The further graphical element 11 is a sort of “avatar trainer”, orelement representing the trainer in the images displayed on the screen10.

The further graphical element 11, or “avatar trainer”, preferably hasthe appearance of a human being.

The further graphical element 11 moves dynamically on the screen 10 andperforms a correct movement, that is to say, it moves relative to thepredetermined reference pattern.

In other words, while performing the exercise, the user 3 watches thescreen 10 and observes both the movement of the graphical element 12representing him or her, that is to say, of the image of his or her ownbody 20, and the movement of the further graphical element 11representing the trainer or “avatar trainer”, in order to ascertainwhether or not his or her own movement during the exercise is a correctmovement.

Advantageously, simply observing the images displayed on the screen 10allows the user 3 to quickly and easily correct any mistakes he or shemay be making in doing the exercise and thus provides the user 3 withreal-time feedback regarding the correctness of the exercise beingperformed.

In addition, the apparatus 1 may also provide other useful informationessential for performing a fitness exercise correctly.

For example, for many exercises, the user 3 must remain in apredetermined position for a predetermined length of time, usually a fewseconds, in order to keep certain muscles contracted.

Further, when the user performs a plurality of these exercisesconsecutively, there is usually a pause between one exercise and thenext, that is to say, a recovery time in which the muscles are notcontracted.

According to this aspect of the invention, the processor 6 may also beconfigured to drive the feedback means 5 in such a way as to provideindications regarding the correct hold time for a predeterminedposition, and/or the correct recovery time between one exercise andanother.

The expressions “correct hold time” and “correct recovery time” are usedto mean the intervals of time an expert in the field of physicaleducation would consider suitable for remaining in a specific positionand for muscle recovery, respectively.

In a first variant of the apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 described above, theprocessor 6 is configured in such a way that the further graphicalelement 11, or “avatar-trainer”, is positioned according to thepredetermined reference pattern and also to the signal representing themovement of the user 3.

According to this variant, the further graphical element 11, or“avatar-trainer”, moves on the screen 10 also relative to the positionof the graphical element 12.

Advantageously, this allows the user 3 to have effective feedback on thecorrectness of the exercise irrespective of the speed at which he or sheis doing the exercise. In effect, even if the user 3 is doing theexercise slowly, the movements of the further graphical element 11 onthe screen 10 are coordinated with those of the graphical element 12,that is to say, the further graphical element 11 moves on the screen 10and does the exercise correctly at substantially the same speed as thegraphical element 12.

According to a second variant of the apparatus 1 of FIG. 1, theprocessor 6 is not configured to drive the screen 10 to display theimages captured by the video camera 9.

According to this variant, the processor 6 is configured to derive fromthe images captured by the video camera 9 the position of the mobileelement 8 and/or of the body 20 of the user 3, that is to say, toextract from the images captured by the video camera 9 a signalrepresenting the position of the mobile element 8 and/or of the body 20of the user 3.

Preferably, the processor 6 is furnished with an image analysis andrecognition software.

By way of a non-limiting example, the processor 6 may be configured torecognize the barycenter of the mobile element 8 and/or the outline ofthe user's body 20.

The position of the mobile element 8 and/or of the body 20 of the user 3defines the signal representing the movement of the user 3.

According to this variant, the processor 6 is configured to drive thescreen 10 in such a way as to reproduce a graphical element 12representing the movement of the user 3 and/or of the mobile element 8.

The graphical element 12 is a sort of “user avatar”, that is, agraphical element representing the user 3 on the screen and/or themobile element 8.

Preferably, the graphical element 12 has the appearance of a human beingand/or of the mobile element 8.

The graphical element 12, like the one described above in connectionwith the preferred mode of operation of the apparatus 1 of FIG. 1, moveson the screen 10 relative to the movements of the user 3, that is tosay, when the user makes a movement to perform the exercise, thegraphical element 12 makes a corresponding movement on the screen 10.

According to this variant, the processor 6 is configured to display onthe screen 10 the further graphical element 11 representing the trainer,that is to say, the “avatar-trainer”, having the same technical featuresas the one described above with reference to the preferred mode ofoperation or the one of the first variant of the apparatus 1 of FIG. 1.

This second variant therefore differs from the embodiments of theapparatus 1 of FIG. 1 described above in that the graphical element 12is not defined as an image of the body 20 of the user 3 but is agraphical element 12 generated by the processor 6.

By way of a non-limiting example, FIG. 2 illustrates another apparatus 1for the assisted performance of a fitness exercise.

The apparatus 1 of the FIG. 2 comprises a fitness tool 2 having aresistant load 7 which defines a mobile element 8.

The fitness tool of FIG. 2 is a dumb-bell 22 having a handgrip 18 and aweight 21 at each end of the handgrip 18.

FIG. 2 illustrates a user 3 performing a fitness exercise with a pair ofdumb-bells 22. More specifically, the user 3 holds a first dumb-bell 22in the right hand and a second dumb-bell 22 in the left hand to performan exercise consisting of moving the dumb-bells 22.

In this embodiment, the apparatus 1 comprises a position sensor 23associated with each dumb-bell 22.

The position sensor 23 is configured to sense the position of thedumb-bell 22 it is associated with relative to a fixed spatial referencesystem.

The position sensor 23 of the dumb-bell 22 defines the sensing means 4.

Thus, the position sensors 23, that is, the sensing means 4, are set upto provide a signal representing the position of the dumb-bell 22.

The position sensors 23 are configured to transmit the dumb-bell 22position signal to the processor 6 preferably through a wirelesstransmission system 28.

The apparatus 1 comprises a screen 10 set up to display images anddefining the feedback means 5.

According to this variant, the ideal pattern for the movement of theuser 3 comprises an ideal path for the dumb-bells 22 corresponding tothe fitness exercise performed correctly.

The processor 6 is configured to compare the sensed signal of dumb-bell22 position with the ideal path of the dumb-bells 22 corresponding tothe fitness exercise performed correctly.

Below is a description of a preferred, non-limiting example mode ofoperation of the apparatus 1 of FIG. 2.

The user 3 performs the fitness exercise and the dumb-bell 22 positionsensors 23 transmit the dumb-bell 22 position signal to the processor 6.

The processor 6 is configured to drive the screen 10 in such a way thatdynamic images are displayed.

FIG. 2 illustrates the screen 10 on completion of the exercise.

On the screen 10, two graphical elements 24, 25, shown by the unbrokenline, represent the actual positions of the dumb-bell at the beginningand end of the exercise, respectively, and two further graphicalelements 26, 27, shown by the dashed line, represent the ideal positionsof the dumb-bell at the beginning and end of the exercise, respectively,that is to say, the positions the dumb-bell would adopt if the exerciseis performed correctly.

Also illustrated are two regions 29 corresponding to the actual pathfollowed by the dumb-bell 22 during the exercise and two further regions30 corresponding to the ideal path followed by the dumb-bell 22 duringthe exercise, that is to say, the path the dumb-bell would follow if theexercise is performed correctly.

At the end of and during the exercise, by simply observing the screen 10which displays images representing the positions actually adopted and/orthe paths actually followed by the dumb-bells 22 relative to the idealpositions and the ideal paths of the dumb-bells 22, the user 3 hasimmediate feedback regarding the correctness of the exercise he or shehas just performed.

In effect, the image displayed on the screen 10 is updated in real timeby the processor 6, which is set up to display on the screen somegraphical references 24, 25, 29 as a function of the sensed position ofthe dumb-bells and other graphical references 26, 27, 30 as a functionof the ideal path of the dumb-bells corresponding to the predeterminedexercise performed correctly.

Advantageously, simply observing the images displayed on the screen 10allows the user 3 to quickly and easily correct any mistakes he or shemay be making in doing the exercise and thus provides the user 3 withreal-time feedback regarding the correctness of the exercise beingperformed.

According to a variant of the apparatus of FIG. 2 not illustrated in thedrawings, the sensing means 4 comprise a video camera designed tocapture images of the user 3 performing the exercise.

According to this variant, the processor 6 is preferably configured toderive the position of the dumb-bells 22 from the images captured by thevideo camera.

By way of a non-limiting example, the processor 6 may be configured torecognize in the image the position of the barycenter of the weights 21of the dumb-bells 22 and/or the outline of the dumb-bells 22.

This variant has the same advantageous technical features as thosedescribed above with reference to the apparatus 1 of FIG. 2 equippedwith position sensors.

By way of a non-limiting example, FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate anotherexample of an apparatus 1 for the assisted performance of a fitnessexercise.

The fitness tool 2 of FIGS. 3A and 3B is a tool known as a“lateral-machine”, which comprises a frame 31, a plurality of pulleys32, a cable 33 with a first end 34 and a second end 35 and trainedaround the pulleys 32, a mobile element 8 fixed to the first end 34 ofthe cable and a resistant load 7 fixed to the second end 35 of thecable.

The fitness tool 2 also comprises a seat 36 for the user 3.

The mobile element 8 comprises a bar 37 which the user 3 grips with bothhands to perform the exercise.

With this type of fitness tool 2, the user 3 does fitness exercises bymoving the bar 37 towards/away from his or her body 20 in a plane whichis preferably vertical or, at most, slightly inclined.

Preferably, in this embodiment of the apparatus 1, the sensing means 4comprise a plurality of optical barriers 13.

The optical barriers 13 comprise a light emitting device 39, that is, adevice for emitting a light beam F, preferably collimated, and areceiving device 40 designed to receive a part of the emitted light.

Each optical barrier 13 thus provides a signal indicating thepresence/absence of an opaque body positioned on the path of the lightbeam F between the light emitting device 39 and the receiving device 40,that is to say, a signal relating to the interruption of the light beamF between the light emitting device 39 and the receiving device 40.

The signal relating to the interruption of the light beam F defines asignal which represents the movement of the user 3 and which is used bythe processor 6 to provide the feedback regarding the correctness of theexercise.

In effect, the processor 6 is configured to drive the feedback means 5according to the light beam F interruption signal.

Preferably, the optical barriers 13 are positioned in such a way as todefine two planes P1, P2, that is to say, a first, front plane P1 and asecond, rear plane P2.

The planes P1, P2 delimit a spatial region R within which the user 3must keep the bar 37 and his or her own body 20 in order to perform theexercise correctly.

Further, preferably, the sensing means 4 comprise an inclination sensor41 designed to measure the inclination of the bar 37 in a verticalplane.

Preferably, the inclination sensor 41 is fixed to the bar 37.

The feedback means 5 comprise a screen 10 set up to display images.

The processor 6 is configured to display graphical references on thescreen 10 according to the light beam F interruption signal.

By way of an example, the screen illustrated in FIG. 3A shows an imagewhich comprises at the top of it a rectangular graphical reference 43,with which four arrow type graphical elements are associated, and at thebottom of it a circular graphical reference 44, with which another twoarrow type graphical references are associated.

The rectangular graphical reference 43 schematically represents the bar37 viewed from the back and the circular graphical reference 44represents the same bar 37 viewed from the side.

The processor 6 is configured to activate the arrow graphical referencesaccording to the interruption signal sensed.

By way of a non-limiting example, interruption of one of the opticalbarriers 13 of the second, rear plane P2 causes the arrow labeled 45 tobe activated. This provides the user with an indication as to how themovement can be corrected, that is to say, it tells the user that forthe exercise to be done correctly, he or she must keep the bar 37 closerto the body, that is to say, further away from the plane P2.

Preferably, the processor 6 is also configured to display graphicalreferences on the screen according to the signal from the inclinationsensor 41.

By way of a non-limiting example, the processor 6 may be configured insuch a way that when the inclination of the bar 37 in the vertical planeis not consistent with the predetermined reference pattern for theinclination, it activates on the screen the arrow graphical referenceslabeled 46. This provides the user with an indication as to how themovement can be corrected, that is to say, it tells the user 3 that forthe exercise to be done correctly, he or she must rotate the bar 37 in avertical plane, as indicated by the arrow graphical references 46.

The feedback means 5 also comprise a device 42 for emitting coloredlight.

The processor is configured to drive the device 42 for emitting coloredlight in such a way that the device emits light of a certain color, forexample green, when the processor 6 senses that the user 3 is doing theexercise correctly, and light of another color, for example red, whenthe processor 6 senses that the user 3 is not doing the exercisecorrectly.

FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of the proposed apparatus 1 forthe assisted performance of a fitness exercise where the fitness tool 2is a fitness tool 2 known in the trade as a “lower back bench”.

The fitness tool 2 comprises a frame 47 equipped with a supportingmember 48 designed to support the legs of the user 3 when he or she doesthe exercise and a securing device 49 for holding the body 20 of theuser 3 against the frame 47, or rather, against the supporting member48.

With this fitness tool 2, the user 3, after placing the legs on thesupporting member 48 and securing the body 20 to the frame 47 using thesecuring device 49, does a fitness exercise consisting of lifting andlowering the trunk, that is to say, oscillating the torso about thewaist.

This fitness tool 2 does not comprise a resistant load since theresistant load is constituted by the torso of the user 3 which the user3 alternately lifts and lowers against the force of gravity acting onit.

The sensing means 4 of the apparatus of FIG. 4 comprise an opticalbarrier 13.

The optical barrier 13 comprises a light emitting device 39, that is, adevice for emitting a light beam, preferably a low divergence beam, anda receiving device 40 configured to receive a part of the light emittedby the light emitting device 39.

The optical barrier 13 thus provides a signal indicating thepresence/absence of an opaque body positioned on the path of the lightbeam F between the light emitting device 39 and the receiving device 40,that is to say, a signal relating to the interruption of the light beamF between the light emitting device 39 and the receiving device 40.

The signal relating to the interruption of the light beam F defines asignal which represents the movement of the user 3.

The optical barrier 13 is positioned in such a way that when the user 3does the exercise correctly, the light beam F is not interrupted.

In effect, the user 3 interrupts the light beam F during the exercise ifhe or she is arching the back and thus making an incorrect movement.

In the example of FIG. 4, the optical barrier 13 is positioned in such away that the path followed by the light beam F is a substantiallyhorizontal path.

The feedback means 5 preferably comprise an acoustic warning device 14designed to emit an audible warning.

The processor 6 is set up to activate the acoustic warning device 14according to the light beam F interruption signal, that is to say, itactivates the warning device if it senses that the light beam F has beeninterrupted.

Preferably, the apparatus 1 comprises a control element 16 configured tointeract with the processor 6 in such a way that the processor 6enables/disables the feedback and the transmission of the feedback tothe feedback means 5.

The user 3 advantageously acts on the control element 16 to disable thefeedback when the exercise is not being performed. This is particularlyadvantageous when the user is getting ready to start the exercise on thefitness tool because it prevents the emission of warning signals causedby inadvertent interruption of the optical barrier 13 before startingthe exercise.

The apparatus 1 according to the invention for the assisted performanceof a fitness exercise, illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4 and described above,allows the user 3 to perform a fitness exercise correctly.

In effect, advantageously, the apparatus 1 provides real-time feedbackregarding the correctness of the exercise being done and is also able toprovide useful indications on how to correct the user's movement whilethe exercise is being done.

In other words, the apparatus 1 allows the user to optimize the benefitsassociated with an exercise being done (increase in muscle tone, power,etc.) and reduces the risks deriving from incorrect postures that mightbe adopted during the performance of the exercise.

Also, advantageously, the apparatus 1 for the assisted performance of afitness exercise is configured in such a way that the user 3 does nothave to wear any sensor. In effect, it is known that users of fitnessequipment are reluctant to wear monitoring equipment and/or sensors.

FIG. 5 illustrates by way of a non-limiting example an apparatus 100 forassisting the user 3 in the performance of a free body fitness exercise,also according to the invention.

The apparatus 100, according to the invention, comprises a video camera9 configured to film the user 3 performing the exercise.

The video camera 9 constitutes sensing means 4 set up to provide asignal representing the user 3.

Also according to the invention, the apparatus 100 further comprises ascreen 10 set up to display images.

The screen 10 constitutes feedback means 5 for transmitting a signal tothe user 3 during performance of the exercise.

The apparatus 100 further comprises a processor 6 connected to thesensing means 4 and to the feedback means 5 to provide the user withreal-time feedback on the correctness of performance of the exercise,based on a comparison between the signal representing the movement ofthe user and a predetermined reference pattern representing an idealpattern for the movement of the user corresponding to the exerciseperformed correctly.

Below is a description, with reference to FIG. 5, of a preferred,non-limiting example mode of operation of the apparatus 100 forassisting the user 3 in the performance of a free body fitness exercise.

Other variants of the apparatus 100 of FIG. 5 will also be describedbelow by way of non-limiting examples.

FIG. 5 shows a user 3 doing a free body exercise and, more specifically,an exercise consisting of lifting and lowering the arms.

The video camera 9 of the apparatus 100 films the user 3 performing thefitness exercise.

Preferably, the processor 6 receives the images captured by the videocamera 9 and drives the screen 10 in such a way that the latter displaysthe image of the body 20 of the user 3 captured by the video camera 9.

The screen 10 thus constitutes a sort of “mirror” in which the user canobserve his or her own movement during performance of the exercise.

The image of the body 20 of the user 3 defines on the screen 10 agraphical element 12 representing the user.

The graphical element 12 is positioned on the screen 10 according to themovement of the user 3. In effect, the position of the body 20 of theuser 3 in the image displayed is correlated with the position actuallyadopted by the user 3 while performing the exercise.

The processor 6 is preferably configured to display on the screen 10also a further graphical element 11, which is positioned according tothe predetermined reference pattern.

Preferably, the further graphical element 11 is placed alongside, oralternatively superposed over, the graphical element 12.

The further graphical element 11 is a sort of “avatar trainer”, orelement representing the trainer in the images on the screen 10.

The further graphical element 11, or “avatar trainer”, preferably hasthe appearance of a human being.

The further graphical element 11 moves dynamically on the screen 10relative to the ideal reference pattern stored and performs a correctfitness movement.

In other words, while performing the free body exercise, the user 3watches the screen 10 and observes both the movement of the graphicalelement 12 representing him or her, that is to say, of the image of hisor her own body 20, and the movement of the further graphical element 11representing the trainer or “avatar trainer”, in order to ascertainwhether or not his or her own movement during the exercise is a correctmovement.

Advantageously, simply observing the images displayed on the screen 10allows the user 3 to quickly and easily correct any mistakes he or shemay be making in doing the exercise and thus provides the user 3 withreal-time feedback regarding the correctness of the exercise beingperformed.

In a first variant of the apparatus 100 of FIG. 5, the processor 6 isconfigured in such a way that the further graphical element 11 ispositioned according to the predetermined reference pattern and also tothe signal representing the movement of the user.

According to this variant, the further graphical element 11 moves on thescreen 10 also relative to the position of the graphical element 12.

Advantageously, this allows the user 3 to have effective feedback on thecorrectness of the exercise irrespective of the speed at which he or sheis doing the free body exercise. In effect, even if the user 3 is doingthe exercise slowly, the movements of the further graphical element 11on the screen 10 are coordinated with those of the graphical element 12,that is to say, the further graphical element 11 moves on the screen 10and does the exercise correctly at substantially the same speed as thegraphical element 12.

According to a second variant of the apparatus 100, the processor 6 isnot configured to drive the screen 10 to display the images of the body20 of the user 3 captured by the video camera 9.

According to this variant, the processor 6 is configured to derive fromthe images received the reciprocal position of parts of the user's body.

Preferably, the processor 6 is furnished with an image analysis andrecognition software.

In other words, for example, the processor 6 may be set up to derive theposition of the arms relative to the torso and/or to recognize the anglebetween the different articulated parts of each arm (forearms, wrists,etc.).

The relative position of the different parts of the body defines thesignal representing the movement of the user.

According to this variant, the processor 6 is configured to drive thescreen 10 in such a way as to reproduce a graphical element 12representing the movement of the user 3.

The graphical element 12 is a sort of “user avatar”, that is, agraphical element 12 which represents the user 3 on the screen 10.

Preferably, the graphical element 12 has the appearance of a humanbeing.

The graphical element 12 moves on the screen 10 relative to themovements of the user 3, that is to say, when the user makes a movement,the graphical element 12 makes a corresponding movement on the screen10.

According to this variant, the processor 6 is configured to display onthe screen 10 the further graphical element 11 having the same technicalfeatures as the one described above with reference to the apparatus 100.

This variant is therefore characterized in that the graphical element 12is not defined as an image of the body 20 of the user 3 but is agraphical element 12 generated on the screen 10 by the processor 6.

This variant, too, has the same advantageous technical features as thosedescribed above with reference to the preferred mode of operation of theapparatus 100 of FIG. 5.

According to another aspect of the invention, relating both to theapparatus 1 for the assisted performance of a fitness exercise and tothe apparatus 100 for assisting the user 3 in the performance of a freebody fitness exercise, the processor 6 is set up to store the signalrepresenting the movement of the user 3 during the performance of thepredetermined exercise under optimum conditions in order to set it asthe reference pattern.

The expression “optimum conditions” means the conditions in which theexercise is performed correctly, that is to say, the conditions in whicha person performs the exercise in a manner considered optimal, in termsof posture, speed and body arrangement, by an expert in the field ofphysical education.

In other words, the processor 6 is configured in such a way that it ispossible to store the signal representing the movement of the user 3 inorder to derive the reference pattern from it.

This advantageously allows the reference pattern to be saved quickly andeasily.

Advantageously, the apparatus 100 proposed allows the user 3 to beassisted in performing free body exercises by providing indicationsuseful for correcting the user's movement.

In other words, the apparatus 100 allows the user 3 to obtainindications regarding the correctness of the exercise performed, at alimited cost since it does not require the presence of specialistpersonnel such as a trainer.

The apparatus 100 proposed thus advantageously makes it possible tooptimize the beneficial effects associated with the free body exerciseand to reduce the risks deriving from incorrect postures that might beadopted during the performance of the exercise.

The different aspects of the apparatuses 1 and 100 described above canall be combined with each other, that is to say, the embodimentsdescribed above by way of non-limiting examples and the differentaspects of each embodiment are not to be considered mutually exclusive.

In effect, the sensing means 4 may comprise a video camera, positionsensors, an optical barrier and inclination sensors, in combinationwith, or alternatively to, each other.

In addition, the feedback means 5 may comprise a screen, a colored lightemitting device and an acoustic warning device, in combination with, oralternatively to, each other.

Preferably, the fitness tool 2 comprises: a frame, a weight stackmovably associated with the frame to define the resistant load 7; atleast one mobile element 8 connected to the resistant load 7 by a cable19, 33 and movable by the user 3 along a preset path overcoming theresistant load 7. It should be noted that according to the invention,the fitness tool 2 is a fitness machine.

Preferably, the fitness machine 2 is a functional training machine (ofthe type having the mobile element 8, or whose handgrip is inserted in astretch of cable in fixed or slidable manner, or is connected to one endof the cable itself).

The sensing means 4 preferably comprise a three-dimensional movementsensor (such as, for example, a video camera and an infrared emitter) tosense signals relating to the user's position in space (sensed signals).

The apparatus according to the invention preferably also comprises amemory with a database containing data relating to the exercises to beperformed.

In light of this, reference signals corresponding to a user performingthe exercises correctly are stored for each of the exercises.

The correct movement is defined as a succession of correct positionsalternated with predetermined time intervals.

Also stored in the memory, in addition to the reference positions, arethe correct speed and magnitude data (reference speed and magnitude) ofthe movement, for each exercise.

It should be noted that correct performance of the exercise regards thefollowing aspects of the exercise: the sequence of the movements (forexample, correct movement of arms and legs), and the speed and magnitudeof the user's movements.

The fitness machine according to the invention also comprises aprocessor 6 (that is, a central unit) which receives the signals sensedby the sensing means 4, processes them and compares them with thereference signals to identify any differences in terms of sequence,speed and/or magnitude of the movement, within a predetermined toleranceparameter.

Based on the signals sensed, the central unit 6, also builds an image ofthe user (from the position sensed) and generates a feedback signal onthe correctness of the movement based on the previous comparison withthe reference signals stored in the memory.

The central unit 6 compares the sensed position with the referenceposition and takes into account a predetermined position and speedtolerance.

More specifically, the central unit (that is, the processor 6)calculates the tolerance automatically as a function of the user's data(for example, age, body mass index and other user parameters, whetherentered or sensed) or based on the performance of a predeterminedmovement (according to a calibration procedure where the user performs apredetermined movement from which the central unit 6 derives thetolerance).

For example, the tolerance may be implemented by programming theprocessor 6 in such a way that the various parts of the user's body(legs, arms, etc.) which are defined according to the reference signal,(that is, the positions of the parts of the user's body calculated atsuccessive points in time based on the reference exercise representingits ideal performance) are considered by the processor as larger (by apreset factor) than the corresponding portions which are definedaccording to the sensed signal, so that the sensed position does notnecessarily have to lie exactly over the reference position for thefeedback signal to define an exercise as having been performed correctly(or at least to prevent the mistake from being indicated in real time onthe graphical representation of the user).

Obviously, the predetermined tolerance value is correlated with thedifficulty of the exercise.

With reference to the display means 10, preferably the display means ofthe fitness machine comprise a screen for displaying the imagesprocessed by the central unit 6.

These images, processed by the central unit 6, correspond to thefeedback signal generated by the central unit 6 and displayed accordingto the methods described below.

Thus, displaying of the images on the screen constitutes the feedbacktelling the user whether or not the exercise is being performedcorrectly. In particular, it should be noted that this feedback isprovided in real time.

Below is a description of the different feedback methods that may beimplemented in the apparatus according to the invention (alternativelyto, or in combination with, each other).

In a first method, illustrated in FIG. 6, referred to as “singledisplay” method, the user sees on the screen 10 a single representationof his or her body generated by the succession of user positions.

This representation is generated by the central unit (that is, theprocessor 6) based on the signals from the sensing means (for example,by the video camera) and on the data in the memory in such a way as tofollow the movements of the real user performing the exercise.

In that case, if the user does not perform the exercise correctly, theimage changes color (for example, it turns red) in the portioncorresponding to the part of the body that has performed the wrongmovement. Otherwise, (if the difference between the real exerciseactually performed and the ideal exercise as it should be performedremains below the tolerance margin) no part of the user's image changescolor (or is subjected to other changes).

For example, if the user moves the right arm instead of the left armduring the exercise, the right arm turns red.

Or if the speed and/or magnitude of the movement of the user's left armis/are too high compared to the reference, the left arm turns red.

The user is thus guided in the performance of the exercise, that is tosay, is provided, through this display method, with an indicationregarding the correctness of the exercise.

Further, to provide an even more precise reference for the exercise interms of speed and magnitude of the movement, two lateral bars 15 a and15 b are displayed beside the image of the user, one for the right side15 b and one for the left side 15 a, which fill up progressively whilethe exercise is being performed.

The speed at which the bars are filled defines the correct speed of themovement, while the extent of the part filled represents the correctmagnitude of the movement. Preferably, the bars 15 a and 15 b are curvedin shape, since the ends of the arms move along an arcuate trajectory.

Alongside each of the bars 15 a and 15 b there may be a further bar 15c,15 d which fills up according to the sensed movement of the user.

That way, there are two bars on each side (15 a and 15 c for theleft-hand side and 15 b and 15 d for the right-hand side) for the userto compare precisely the correctness of his or her movements in terms ofspeed and magnitude.

FIG. 6 represents the feedback which the user is provided with(preferably on the screen 10) if he or she moves his or her arms toofast compared to the correct movement. As shown, the arms are displayedin a different color from the rest of the body.

In a further variant display method, the feedback provided by changingthe color of the arms in the image regards the sequence of arm movements(for example, right arm lifted instead of left arm).

In that case, the processor 6 uses a parameter representing the rhythmof the exercise performed by the user.

According to this variant, if the user's movements are incorrect interms of speed and/or magnitude, the image displayed on the screen 10does not change—that is, feedback is not provided by changing color—butinstead the processor 6 calculates and displays a score at the end ofthe exercise, taking into account the differences in the speed andmagnitude of the user's movements from the correct parameters.

Described below is a second feedback method, illustrated in FIG. 7,which is alternative or additional to the method described above.

In this case, the central unit 6 processes the signals of the sensingmeans 4 and generates a representation, of the user, or “sensed” image,and, using the reference positions stored in the memory, the displaymeans 10 display two superposed images, a sensed image and a referenceimage.

Thus, as shown in FIG. 7, two images are displayed on the screen 10 atany one time: one, labeled 12, is the sensed image and the other,labeled 11, is the reference image (derived by the processor 6) based onthe data stored in the memory).

Thus, if the user performs the movement correctly in terms of sequence,speed and magnitude, only one image is displayed (corresponding to thetwo images, namely the reference image and the sensed image, “perfectly”superposed, whereas, if the user performs the movement incorrectly(again as a function of the preset tolerance margin), the image splitsup at the part of the body which has performed the incorrect movement(for example, if the user lifts his or her right arm faster than thereference speed, the screen 10 displays an image with two right arms,one belonging to the reference image and one belonging to the sensedimage whose arms are no longer superposed exactly over those of thereference image).

In this case, too, the lateral bars 15 a, 15 b, 15 c, 15 d are presentto provide a reference for the speed and magnitude of the movement inthe same way as described above.

FIG. 7 shows the feedback the user is provided with (that is, an imagethe user sees on the screen) if the arms are lifted faster than theyshould.

Described below is a yet another method of providing the user withfeedback, illustrated in FIG. 8.

According to this feedback method, the representation of the user (imageon the screen 10) is schematic and the user's arms and legs arerepresented by line segments.

In this case, too, the lateral bars 15 a, 15 b, 15 c, 15 d are presentto provide a reference for the speed and magnitude of the movement (seemethod 1, above).

FIG. 8 shows the feedback the user is provided with (that is, the imagedisplayed on the screen) if the arms are lifted faster than they should.

Whatever the case, irrespective of the method of displaying the error inperforming the exercise (constituting real time feedback), the processor6 is configured to calculate and display to the user at the end of theexercise information and data regarding how the exercise was actuallyperformed as compared to how it should ideally have been performed(whether or not the difference between the real exercise and the idealexercise exceeds the tolerance margin), thus constituting a comparativepattern for assessing the exercise.

It should be noted, therefore, that the apparatus according to theinvention preferably contemplates the following.

The sensing means 4 are configured to sense a signal representing theposition of the user performing the exercise. Preferably, the signalrepresents the position of the user in a succession of successive pointsin time (while he or she is performing the exercise).

For example, the sensing means 4 comprise a video camera 9 configured tofilm the user 3 during performance of the exercise. Alternatively (oradditionally), the sensing means 4 comprise a three-dimensional movementsensor configured to sense the user's position and movement during theexercise.

Preferably, the feedback means 5 comprise a screen 10 for displayingimages as a function of a drive signal generated by the processor 6.

The processor 6 is programmed to compare the sensed signal and thepredetermined reference pattern based on the values adopted (in thesuccessive points in time) by at least one predetermined assessmentparameter representing an exercise pattern.

More specifically, the comparison is performed to calculate a differencebetween the value of the assessment parameter for the sensed signal andthe corresponding value of the assessment parameter for the referencepattern. This difference is correlated with a reference quantity(predetermined and stored in the memory of the apparatus) to define apredetermined tolerance margin).

The processor 6 is programmed to generate the drive signal in such a wayas to comprise, alternatively:

-   -   a graphical representation of the user (the avatar 12)        corresponding to the real position of the user and without the        graphical elements based on the reference pattern if (or as long        as) the difference (between the value of the assessment        parameter for the sensed signal and the corresponding value of        the assessment parameter for the reference pattern) is less than        or equal to the predetermined tolerance margin; and    -   a graphical representation of the user modified by graphical        elements based on the reference pattern, to indicate the part of        the body where the difference occurred, if the difference is        greater than the predetermined tolerance margin.

Thus, the graphical representation of the user and the modifiedgraphical representation of the user are not displayed simultaneously.

In effect, when the exercise is performed correctly (or acceptablyaccording to the set tolerance) the unmodified graphical representationof the user is displayed (that is, the one with the user avatar only or,if there are two avatars, one the user avatar and the other the avatartrainer, the two are forcedly superposed, in the sense that the avatartrainer also moves according to the sensed signal and not according tothe reference pattern), whereas when the exercise is performedincorrectly (or unacceptably according to the set tolerance), themodified graphical representation of the user is displayed where theuser can clearly see the mistake made (by graphically altering the useravatar according to the reference pattern or by superimposing an avatartrainer or a part of an avatar trainer which moves according to thereference pattern).

Preferably, the processor 6 performs the comparison (between the sensedsignal and the predetermined reference pattern) based on values adoptedin the successive points in time starting from a first assessmentparameter representing the position adopted by the user.

Preferably, the processor 6 performs the comparison (between the sensedsignal and the predetermined reference pattern) also based on valuesadopted in the successive points in time starting from a secondassessment parameter representing the speed of performance of the user'smovements.

The tolerance margin may be set in such a way that the assessment of thetwo parameters is independent (it is sufficient for one of the twoparameters to exceed the tolerance margin for the modified graphicalrepresentation of the user to be activated) or combined (both theparameters must exceed the respective tolerance margins, according to apredetermined criterion, to activate the modified graphicalrepresentation of the user).

Preferably, the modified graphical representation of the user comprisescoloring or highlighting (on the graphical image representing the user'sbody, that is, on the user avatar 12) on the part of the body where thedifference occurred (that is to say, the part of the body whose sensedposition or speed of movement differs from the ideal pattern by anamount that exceeds the preset tolerance margin).

Alternatively, or additionally, the modified graphical representation ofthe user comprises graphical elements representing an ideal position ofthe user according to the reference pattern, in addition to therepresentation of the user, at least at the part of the user's bodywhere the difference occurred.

Preferably, the processor is configured in such a way as to generate adrive signal according to the following.

Preferably, in addition to the graphical representation of the user(whether modified or unmodified), the drive signal comprises (that is,comprises information for the graphical displaying of) a right-handfilling bar 15 c and a left-hand filling bar 15 d, configured tovisually indicate a state of forward movement and a speed of forwardmovement of the user's right and left hands, respectively.

In addition to the right and left filling bars 15 c and 15 d, the drivesignal preferably further comprises (that is, further comprisesinformation for the graphical displaying of) a right-hand referencefilling bar 15 a and a left-hand reference filling bar 15 b, configuredto visually indicate an ideal state of forward movement and an idealspeed of forward movement of the user's right and left hands,respectively, according to the reference pattern.

Further aspects of the invention are described below.

The sensing means 4 are set up to provide a signal representing theposition of the mobile element 8.

In light of this, the ideal pattern for the movement of the user 3comprises an ideal path of the mobile element corresponding to thefitness exercise performed correctly.

In one embodiment of the invention, the sensing means 4 comprise a videocamera 9 configured to film the user 3 when performing the exercise, thegraphical element 12 comprising a representation of the user filmed bythe video camera 9, and where the processor 6 is programmed to displayon the screen 10 another graphical element 11 according to the presetreference pattern and constituting the real-time feedback on thecorrectness of performance of the exercise.

In light of this, the processor 6 is programmed to display on the screenthe other graphical element 11 as a function also on the signalrepresenting the movement of the user 3.

In another embodiment of the invention, the sensing means 4 comprise atleast one optical barrier 13 set up to generate a light beam F and toprovide a signal indicating interruption of the light beam F, theprocessor 6 being programmed to activate the feedback means 5 accordingto the interruption signal.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, the feedback means 5comprise an acoustic warning device 14.

In another embodiment of the invention, the feedback means 5 comprise adevice 42 for emitting light which is colored according to the result ofthe comparison.

The apparatus 1 also comprises at least one control device 16 which maybe operated by the user to switch the feedback means 5 off or on.

The description set out above also defines a method for assisting theuser in the performance of a fitness exercise, comprising the followingsteps:

-   -   sensing a signal representing the movement of the user 3 when        the user 3 performs the fitness exercise;    -   comparing in real time the signal representing the movement of        the user with a preset reference pattern, representing an ideal        pattern for the movement of the user 3 corresponding to the        fitness exercise performed correctly;    -   and transmitting to the user 3 in real time a signal on the        correctness of the performance of the exercise, according to the        result of the comparison.

Preferably, the step of sensing a signal representing the movement ofthe user 3 comprises capturing a signal representing the position of thebody of the user 3 and/or of a mobile element 8 of a fitness tool 2 usedby the user 3 to perform the exercise, and the ideal pattern for themovement of the user 3 comprises an ideal path for the body of the user3 and/or for the mobile element 8 corresponding to the exerciseperformed correctly.

Preferably, the sensing step comprises capturing a sequence of images ofthe user 3.

Advantageously, the method proposed allows the user to be assisted inthe performance of the fitness exercise in such a way as to providereal-time feedback which the user can use to correct the sequence of hisor her movements. This allows the user to do the exercise correctly.

Preferably, the step of sensing (a signal representing the movement ofthe user 3) comprises capturing a signal representing the position andmovement of the body 20 of the user 3.

In light of this, the ideal pattern for the movement of the user 3comprises an ideal path (or temporal succession of positions) for thebody 20 of the user 3.

Alternatively, or additionally, there is a step of capturing a signalrepresenting the position and movement of a mobile element 8 of thefitness tool 2 (that is, of the fitness machine 2) used by the user 3 toperform the exercise.

In light of this, the ideal pattern for the movement of the user 3comprises an ideal path (or temporal succession of positions) for themobile element 8 corresponding to the exercise performed correctly.

The step of sensing a signal representing the movement of the user 3comprises capturing a signal representing the position of the user in asuccession of successive points in time while he or she is performingthe exercise.

The sensing step is performed, for example, by capturing a sequence ofimages of the user or by means of data sensed by a three-dimensionalmovement sensor (whose operation is per se known).

Preferably, the comparison between the sensed signal and thepredetermined reference pattern is based on the values adopted in thesuccessive points in time by at least one predetermined assessmentparameter representing an exercise pattern.

Preferably, the step of transmitting a signal comprises displayingimages as a function of the comparison in such a way that the imagescomprise alternatively:

a graphical representation of the user corresponding to the realposition of the user and without the graphical elements based on thereference pattern if (or as long as) the difference between the value ofthe assessment parameter for the sensed signal and the correspondingvalue of the assessment parameter for the reference pattern is less thanor equal to the predetermined tolerance margin; and

a graphical representation of the user modified by graphical elementsbased on the reference pattern, to indicate the part of the body wherethe difference occurred, if the difference is greater than thepredetermined tolerance margin.

Preferably, the comparison between the sensed signal and thepredetermined reference pattern is performed as a function of a firstassessment parameter, representing the position adopted by the user, anda second assessment parameter, representing a speed of the user'smovements, by comparing the values adopted by the assessment parametersin the successive points in time for the sensed signal and correspondingvalues adopted by the assessment parameters in the successive points intime for the predetermined reference pattern.

As regards the use of the two assessment parameters in combination or inparallel, reference is made to the above description of the apparatus.

Preferably, the method comprises a step of processing the sensed signaland the reference pattern as a function of the comparison, in order todisplay a modified representation of the user comprising (alternativelyor in combination):

coloring or highlighting on the part of the body where the differenceexceeding the preset tolerance margin occurred;

graphical elements representing an ideal position of the user accordingto the reference pattern, in addition to (for example, partly superposedover) the graphical representation of the user, at least at the part ofthe user's body where the difference occurred.

Preferably, the method comprises displaying, in addition to thegraphical representation of the user (whether modified or unmodified), aright-hand filling bar 15 c and a left-hand filling bar 15 d, configuredto visually indicate a state of forward movement and a speed of forwardmovement of the user's right and left hands, respectively.

In addition (and possibly, alternatively) to the right and left fillingbars 15 c and 15 d, the method comprises displaying a right-handreference filling bar 15 a and a left-hand reference filling bar 15 b,configured to visually indicate an ideal state of forward movement andan ideal speed of forward movement of the user's right and left hands,respectively, according to the reference pattern.

Preferably, the filling bars are located (in the displayed image) oneither side of the user representation 12.

Preferably, the filling bars are arcuate in shape.

The bars serve to provide the user with real time feedback on thecorrectness of the movement performed, giving him or her the chance,while doing the exercise, to see how the exercise should be performed(in terms of both position and movement speed, or rhythm).

It should be noted that the filling bars can be substituted by any othergraphical element serving the same function such as, for example, aplurality of graphical elements that change color in temporalsuccession.

The fact that the bars are located at the sides of the user avatar 12advantageously makes it possible not to distract the user.

Advantageously, therefore, the method proposed makes it possible tooptimize the beneficial effects associated with the exercise and toreduce the risks deriving from incorrect postures that might be adoptedduring the performance of the exercise.

The invention described above is susceptible of industrial applicationand may be modified and adapted in several ways without therebydeparting from the scope of the inventive concept. Moreover, all thedetails of the invention may be substituted by technically equivalentelements.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for the assisted performanceof a fitness exercise, equipped with a fitness tool configured tointeract with a user to enable the user to perform a movement along apreset path overcoming the force of a resistant load, the fitness toolcomprising: a frame; a weight stack movably associated with the frame todefine the resistant load; at least one mobile element connected to theresistant load by a cable and movable by the user along a pathovercoming the resistant load; a detector for providing a signalrepresenting the movement of the user; a feedback generator fortransmitting a feedback signal to the user during performance of theexercise; a processor connected to the detector and to the feedbackgenerator to provide the user with feedback in real time on thecorrectness of performance of the exercise, based on a comparisonbetween the signal representing the movement of the user and apredetermined reference pattern representing an ideal pattern for themovement of the user corresponding to the exercise performed correctly,wherein the feedback generator comprises (i) a graphical representationof the body of the user generated by a succession of user positions and(ii) graphical elements based on the reference pattern andrepresentative of the difference between the signal representing themovement of the user and the predetermined reference pattern, whereinthe processor is programmed to display said graphical elements only whenthe difference between the signal representing the movement of the userand the predetermined reference pattern exceeds a predeterminedtolerance margin, whereby the reference pattern is not displayed as longas the difference between the signal representing the movement of theuser and the predetermined reference pattern is less than or equal tosaid predetermined tolerance margin.
 2. The apparatus according to claim1, wherein the cable of the fitness tool is trained around a pluralityof pulleys and the mobile element comprises a handgrip associated withthe cable, the fitness tool allowing the user to perform a plurality offitness exercises for training a plurality of body muscles of the user.3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the detector isconfigured to sense a signal representing the position of the userperforming the exercise in a succession of successive points in time;the feedback generator comprises a screen for displaying images as afunction of a drive signal generated by the processor; the processor isprogrammed to compare the sensed signal and the predetermined referencepattern based on the values adopted in the successive points in time byat least one predetermined assessment parameter representing an exercisepattern, the processor being programmed to generate the drive signal insuch a way that it comprises a graphical representation of the usercorresponding to the real position of the user and without graphicalelements based on the reference pattern if the difference between thevalue of the assessment parameter for the sensed signal and thecorresponding value of the assessment parameter for the referencepattern is less than or equal to a predetermined tolerance margin; and agraphical representation of the user modified by graphical elementsbased on the reference pattern, to indicate the part of the body wherethe difference occurred, if the difference is greater than thepredetermined tolerance margin.
 4. The apparatus according to claim 3,wherein the processor is programmed to compare the sensed signal withthe predetermined reference pattern as a function of the values adoptedin the successive points in time by a first assessment parameter,representing the position adopted by the user, and by a secondassessment parameter, representing a speed at which the user performsthe movements.
 5. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein themodified representation of the user comprises coloring or highlightingon the part of the body where the difference occurred.
 6. The apparatusaccording to claim 3, wherein the modified graphical representation ofthe user comprises graphical elements representing an ideal position ofthe user according to the reference pattern, in addition to therepresentation of the user, at least at the part of the user's bodywhere the difference occurred.
 7. The apparatus according to claim 3,wherein the drive signal comprises a right-hand filling bar and aleft-hand filling bar, configured to visually indicate a state offorward movement and a speed of forward movement of the user's right andleft hands, respectively.
 8. The apparatus according to claim 7, whereinthe drive signal further comprises a right-hand reference filling barand a left-hand reference filling bar, configured to visually indicatean ideal state of forward movement and an ideal speed of forwardmovement of the user's right and left hands, respectively, according tothe reference pattern.
 9. The apparatus according to claim 1, whereinthe detector comprises a video camera configured to film the user duringperformance of the exercise or a three-dimensional movement sensorconfigured to sense the user's position and movement during theexercise.
 10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processoris set up to store the signal representing the movement of the usercorresponding to the fitness exercise performed in an optimum manner, toset it as the reference pattern.
 11. A method to assist a user in theperformance of a fitness exercise using an exercise machine comprising aframe, a weight stack movably associated with the frame to define theresistant load, and at least one mobile element connected to theresistant load by a cable and movable by the user along a preset pathovercoming the resistant load, wherein the method comprises thefollowing steps: sensing through a detector a signal representing themovement of the user, when the user performs the fitness exercisethrough the exercise machine; comparing in real time the signalrepresenting the movement of the user with a preset reference pattern,representing an ideal pattern for the movement of the user correspondingto the fitness exercise performed correctly, wherein said comparison iscarried out by a processor connected to the detector and to a feedbackgenerator; transmitting to the user in real time a signal on thecorrectness of the performance of the exercise, according to the resultof the comparison, wherein said signal is transmitted through thefeedback generator, wherein said signal transmitted in real time to theuser comprises: (i) a graphical representation of the body of the usergenerated by a succession of user positions and (ii) graphical elementsbased on the reference pattern and representative of the differencebetween the signal representing the movement of the user and thepredetermined reference pattern, wherein said graphical elements aretransmitted to the user only when the difference between the signalrepresenting the movement of the user and the predetermined referencepattern exceeds a predetermined tolerance margin, whereby no referencepattern is displayed as long as the difference between the signalrepresenting the movement of the user and the predetermined referencepattern is less than or equal to said predetermined tolerance margin.12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the step of sensing asignal representing the movement of the user comprises capturing asignal representing the position of the user in a succession ofsuccessive points in time while he or she is performing the exercise,the comparison between the sensed signal and the predetermined referencepattern is based on the values adopted in the successive points in timeby at least one predetermined assessment parameter representing anexercise pattern, the step of transmitting a signal comprises displayingimages as a function of the comparison in such a way that the imagescomprise a graphical representation of the user corresponding to thereal position of the user and without graphical elements based on thereference pattern if (or as long as) the difference between the value ofthe assessment parameter for the sensed signal and the correspondingvalue of the assessment parameter for the reference pattern is less thanor equal to the predetermined tolerance margin, and a graphicalrepresentation of the user modified by graphical elements based on thereference pattern, to indicate the part of the body where the differenceoccurred, if the difference is greater than the predetermined tolerancemargin.
 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the comparisonbetween the sensed signal and the predetermined reference pattern isperformed as a function of a first assessment parameter, representingthe position adopted by the user, and a second assessment parameter,representing a speed of the user's movements, by comparing the valuesadopted by the assessment parameters in the successive points in timefor the sensed signal and corresponding values adopted by the assessmentparameters in the successive points in time for the predeterminedreference pattern.
 14. The method according to claim 12, comprising astep of processing the sensed signal and the reference pattern as afunction of the comparison, in order to display a modifiedrepresentation of the user comprising: coloring or highlighting on thepart of the body where the difference exceeding the preset tolerancemargin occurred; graphical elements representing an ideal position ofthe user according to the reference pattern, substantially superposedover the graphical representation of the user at least at the part ofthe user's body where the difference occurred.
 15. The method accordingto claim 12, comprising displaying, in addition to the graphicalrepresentation of the user, a right-hand filling bar and a left-handfilling bar, configured to visually indicate a state of forward movementand a speed of forward movement of the user's right and left hands,respectively, and/or a right-hand reference filling bar and a left-handreference filling bar configured to visually indicate an ideal state offorward movement and an ideal speed of forward movement of the user'sright and left hands, respectively, according to the reference pattern.